Not surprisingly, when it comes to cavities and fillings, most people think silver. Dentists have used amalgam (silver) to fill cavities for over 150 years. This is because Amalgam is one of the most durable and long-lasting restorative materials used in dentistry.
Amalgam may be affordable and it can endure, but it lacks in aesthetics. However, invisible fillings, made from composite resin, matches your natural tooth color. No one will be able to see composite fillings.
Composite resin is made of a tooth-colored plastic mixture and glass. Early on, composite fillings were only used to restore front teeth. But they are stronger today.
Today's composites look more natural and are stronger and tougher, and more versatile so they can be used to:
- Restore small- to mid-sized cavities
- Reshape chipped teeth and broken teeth
- Replace amalgam fillings
There are other benefits to composite fillings, too. If you have sensitive teeth, composite fillings may make them less sensitive to hot and cold. And with composites, more of your tooth structure stays intact – that’s not the case with silver fillings. Composite fillings are also easily fixable if they’re damaged.
For more information on invisible fillings, contact Oyster Point Dentistry.
